La Candelaria Travel Guide

Read our comprehensive travel guide to La Candelaria in Bogotá, Colombia. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more!


La Candelaria Travel Guide - A Comprehensive Tour Guide for La Candelaria in Bogotá, Colombia

La Candelaria is a historic neighborhood located in Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, in South America. This charming area is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant street art scene, and lively cultural events. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, La Candelaria has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will provide you all the information you need to plan your trip to La Candelaria.

List of Places to Visit in La Candelaria

La Candelaria is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bogotá, with plenty of things to see and do. Here is a list of places to visit in La Candelaria:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo del Oro: This museum houses one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts in the world.
  • Museo Botero: This museum contains works of art by the famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero, along with pieces from other Latin American artists.
  • Palacio de Nariño: This is the official residence of the President of Colombia and is located in the heart of La Candelaria.
  • Plaza de Bolívar: This is the main square in La Candelaria and is surrounded by important government buildings and churches.
  • Catedral Primada de Colombia: This is the largest church in Colombia and one of the most important religious buildings in the country.

Natural Attractions of La Candelaria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cerro de Monserrate: This mountain is located just outside La Candelaria and offers a stunning view of Bogotá.
  • Jardín Botánico Jose Celestino Mutis: This botanical garden is home to over 19,000 plants and is a haven for nature lovers.
  • Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza: This national park is located just a short drive from La Candelaria and offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of La Candelaria

La Candelaria offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in La Candelaria:

  • Ciclovía de la Séptima: This is a popular bike path that runs along the Séptima Avenue, the main street of La Candelaria.
  • Quebrada las Delicias: This is a hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful countryside outside of La Candelaria.
  • Cerro de Guadalupe: This hike takes you up a steep hill to a small church with a beautiful view of La Candelaria and Bogotá.

Best Things to Do in La Candelaria: Activities and Tours

In La Candelaria, you’ll find plenty of things to do, from cultural activities to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in La Candelaria:

  • Street Art Tour: Take a tour of La Candelaria’s vibrant and colorful street art scene.
  • Coffee Tasting Tour: Learn about Colombia’s famous coffee culture and taste some of the best coffee in the world.
  • Cooking Class: Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Colombian dishes such as arepas and empanadas.

Week-Long Itinerary for La Candelaria

Here is a sample one-week itinerary for La Candelaria:

Day 1: Visit the Museo del Oro, the Palacio de Nariño, and the Plaza de Bolívar. Day 2: Hike up Cerro de Monserrate and enjoy the stunning views of Bogotá. Day 3: Explore the Jardín Botánico Jose Celestino Mutis and the Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza. Day 4: Visit the Museo Botero and take a street art tour of La Candelaria. Day 5: Take a cooking class and explore the food and drink scene of La Candelaria. Day 6: Bike along the Ciclovía de la Séptima and hike the Quebrada las Delicias trail. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local culture of La Candelaria, including live music and dance performances.

Food and Drink Scene of La Candelaria

La Candelaria is known for its delicious Colombian cuisine and local delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arepas: These are traditional Colombian corn cakes, usually made with cheese or chicken.
  • Empanadas: These are fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Bandeja Paisa: This is a hearty dish of beans, rice, sausage, avocado, and fried egg.

Local Beverages

  • Canelazo: This is a hot drink made with aguardiente (a type of Colombian alcohol), cinnamon, and panela (unrefined cane sugar).
  • Chicha: This is a fermented corn-based drink that has been a traditional beverage in Colombia for centuries.

Where to Stay in La Candelaria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

La Candelaria has plenty of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some options:

  • Selina La Candelaria: This is a trendy hostel located in the heart of La Candelaria.
  • Hotel Casa de la Vega: This is a boutique hotel that offers beautiful colonial-style rooms.
  • Casa Platypus: This is a guesthouse that offers both private and shared rooms in a charming colonial house.

What to Buy in La Candelaria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

La Candelaria is a great place to buy souvenirs and local products. Here are some things to consider:

  • Colombian Coffee: Buy some of the best coffee in the world to take home and share with your friends and family.
  • Handicrafts: La Candelaria is filled with local artisans selling beautiful handicrafts such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Colombian Rum: Rum is a popular drink in Colombia, and there are plenty of local brands to choose from.

Local Culture and Customs of La Candelaria

La Candelaria is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, with a rich history and culture. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Language: Spanish is the official language of Colombia, and it’s the primary language spoken in La Candelaria.
  • Currency: The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso.
  • Religion: The majority of Colombians are Catholic, and there are several important religious festivals throughout the year, including Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

Best Time to Visit La Candelaria

The best time to visit La Candelaria is during the dry season, from December to March. The weather is mild, and there are plenty of cultural events and festivals to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of La Candelaria

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting La Candelaria:

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Learn about Colombia’s rich culture and history by visiting museums and historical sites.
  • Take a walking tour of La Candelaria to discover its hidden gems.

Don’t:

  • Flash your valuables or money in public.
  • Buy or consume drugs, as it is illegal in Colombia.
  • Walk alone in La Candelaria at night.

Safety and Health

La Candelaria is a safe neighborhood, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in La Candelaria:

Safety in La Candelaria

  • Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables close and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or clothing.
  • Take taxis or use ride-hailing apps like Uber instead of walking alone at night.

Health in La Candelaria

  • Drink only bottled water and avoid tap water.
  • Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong sun.
  • Consider getting vaccinated against yellow fever and other diseases before traveling to Colombia.

Getting to La Candelaria: Transportation Options and Logistics

La Candelaria is located in the heart of Bogotá, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near La Candelaria

  • El Dorado International Airport: This is the largest airport in Colombia, and it’s located just a short drive from La Candelaria.

Bus Stations Near La Candelaria

  • Terminal de Transportes de Bogotá: This is the main bus terminal in Bogotá, and it’s located just a short drive from La Candelaria.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are everywhere in Bogotá, and they are a convenient way to get around.
  • TransMilenio: This is Bogotá’s bus rapid transit system, and it’s a fast and efficient way to travel around the city.

How to Get Around in La Candelaria

La Candelaria is a small neighborhood, and it’s easy to explore on foot. However, if you prefer to use public transportation, there are several options:

  • Buses: There are several bus routes that run through La Candelaria, and they are an affordable way to get around.
  • Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in La Candelaria, and they are a convenient way to get around the neighborhood.

Where to Go Next from La Candelaria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

La Candelaria is located in Bogotá, which is filled with other exciting destinations and excursions. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • La Calera: This small town is located just outside Bogotá, and it’s known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Villa de Leyva: This historic town is located a few hours’ drive from Bogotá and is a popular destination for its charming colonial architecture and laid-back atmosphere.
  • Salto del Tequendama: This is a beautiful waterfall located just outside of Bogotá.

Conclusion

La Candelaria is a beautiful and vibrant neighborhood that is a must-see destination when visiting Bogotá. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and diverse culture, there’s something for everyone in La Candelaria. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to La Candelaria.

The National Center for the performing arts, located in the heart of Bogota's historic center. The National Center for the performing arts, located in the heart of Bogota's historic center. Plaza de Bolívar, celebrating Christmas with giant bulbs Plaza de Bolívar, celebrating Christmas with giant bulbs Iglesia de la Candelaria Iglesia de la Candelaria Gold figures at the Museo del Oro Gold figures at the Museo del Oro Plazeta del Chorro, where Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada founded the city in 1538, and now a popular nighttime hangout spot for students. Plazeta del Chorro, where Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada founded the city in 1538, and now a popular nighttime hangout spot for students. Dusk approaches, time to party! Dusk approaches, time to party!